Attack on Titan is a popular anime and manga series that depicts a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, facing the constant threat of Titans, giant humanoid creatures that devour humans without mercy.
The series explores various philosophical themes and questions, such as the meaning of life, the nature of morality, the essence of identity, the concept of justice, and the possibility of free will. In this essay, I will argue that Attack on Titan is a reflection of existentialism, a philosophy that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility in creating their own meaning in life.
I will support my argument by analyzing how the characters, the plot, and the symbolism of the series illustrate the existentialist concepts of absurdity, angst, freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and death.
Table of Contents
Existentialism
This is a philosophy that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility in creating their own meaning in life. Attack on Titan depicts a world in which humanity is confined within massive walls to protect themselves from Titans, giant humanoid creatures that devour humans for no apparent reason.
The characters are forced to confront the fragility and futility of their existence as they battle against the Titans and question their purpose in life. Exploring the Philosophical Themes of Attack on Titan is a blog post that examines this theme in more detail.
Morality
This is the evaluation of actions and decisions based on ethical principles and values. Attack on Titan portrays a world in which violence is necessary for survival, but at what cost? The characters are forced to make difficult ethical decisions, such as sacrificing innocent lives to achieve a greater good. “Attack on Titan”‘s philosophy [Part I]: How ethical is the extinction of humanity? is an article that analyzes this theme and its implications.
The Human Condition
This is the state of being human and the characteristics and experiences that define it. Attack on Titan explores the human condition, specifically the nature of humanity and its flaws. The show reveals the dark and cruel aspects of human nature, such as greed, hatred, and betrayal, as well as the noble and heroic ones, such as courage, loyalty, and compassion.
Free Will
This is the ability of individuals to act according to their own choices and preferences, without being determined by external factors or constraints. Attack on Titan questions the concept of free will, as the characters are influenced by various forces, such as the Titans, the government, the military, and their own memories and desires.
Some characters, such as Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Levi Ackerman, are revealed to have a special connection to the Titans, which affects their actions and decisions. [Attack on Titan: The Philosophy of Free Will] is a video that discusses this theme and its implications.
Identity
This is the sense of self that defines who one is and what one stands for. Attack on Titan explores the theme of identity, as the characters struggle to find their place in the world and their role in the conflict.
The show also reveals the complex and diverse identities of the Titans, who are not just mindless monsters, but have their own histories, personalities, and motivations. Some of the Titans, such as Eren Yeager, Annie Leonhart, and Reiner Braun, are actually humans who can transform into Titans, which creates a dilemma for their identity and loyalty.
Secrets of Suicide Squad Isekai: Anime’s Major Reveal Stream Date and Details
Boro Mastering the Flying Raijin Jutsu? : Mystery Behind Flying Raijin Jutsu
Justice
This is the principle of fairness and equality that guides the distribution of rights and responsibilities in society. Attack on Titan challenges the notion of justice, as the show depicts a world where injustice and oppression are rampant.
The characters are faced with the harsh realities of war, discrimination, corruption, and betrayal, which force them to question the meaning and value of justice. The show also presents different perspectives on justice, such as the ideals of freedom, peace, and revenge, and the methods of violence, diplomacy, and negotiation. [Attack on Titan: The Philosophy of Justice] is an article that analyzes this theme and its implications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I have shown that Attack on Titan is a representation of existentialism, a philosophy that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility in creating their own meaning in life. I have demonstrated how the characters, the plot, and the symbolism of the series illustrate the existentialist concepts of absurdity, angst, freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and death.
I have argued that the series portrays a world where life is meaningless and absurd, and where humans must overcome their despair and find their own reasons to live and fight. I have also discussed how the series challenges the notions of morality, identity, and justice, and how it presents different perspectives on these issues.
I have suggested that the series invites the reader to reflect on their own existential situation and choices, and to question the values and beliefs that they hold. I have concluded that Attack on Titan is a powerful and profound work of art that explores the human condition and the philosophical implications of existence.
FAQs: Answers About the Philosophical Implications of Attack on Titan
What is the main message of Attack on Titan?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different viewers may interpret the show differently. However, one possible message is that life is meaningless and absurd, and that humans must create their own meaning and values in the face of adversity and uncertainty.
How does Attack on Titan relate to Nietzsche’s philosophy?
Nietzsche was a German philosopher who influenced existentialism and nihilism. He argued that God is dead and that there is no objective morality or truth. He also proposed the concept of the Übermensch, or the superhuman, who transcends the limitations of human nature and creates their own values. Attack on Titan can be seen as a reflection of Nietzsche’s philosophy, as the show depicts a world without God, without moral certainty, and without hope. The characters must overcome their despair and find their own reasons to live and fight. Eren Yeager, the protagonist, can be seen as an example of the Übermensch, as he transforms into a Titan and challenges the status quo.
How does Attack on Titan relate to Kant’s philosophy?
Kant was a German philosopher who advocated for rationalism and deontology. He argued that there is a universal moral law that is based on reason and that humans have a duty to follow it. He also proposed the categorical imperative, which is a principle that states that one should act only according to the maxim that one can will to become a universal law. Attack on Titan can be seen as a critique of Kant’s philosophy, as the show depicts a world where the universal moral law is not clear and where the categorical imperative is not feasible. The characters must face moral dilemmas and conflicts that challenge their rationality and duty.
How does Attack on Titan relate to Hegel’s philosophy?
Hegel was a German philosopher who developed the dialectical method and the concept of the absolute spirit. He argued that history is a process of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis, where contradictions are resolved and progress is made. He also argued that the absolute spirit is the ultimate reality that manifests itself in nature, human history, and art. Attack on Titan can be seen as an illustration of Hegel’s philosophy, as the show depicts a world where history is driven by conflicts and contradictions, such as the war between humans and Titans, and where the absolute spirit is revealed through the mysteries and secrets of the world.
How does Attack on Titan relate to existentialism?
Existentialism is a philosophy that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility in creating their own meaning in life. Attack on Titan is a show that explores existentialism, as the characters are faced with the absurdity and meaninglessness of their existence and must choose their own paths and values. The show also portrays the themes of existential angst, freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and death.
